Leatherbark... I asked her if I would be reimbursed and she said good luck trying and that once again she was sorry. Sheesh. She said I could take it back to a store for exchange or refund
Really sorry to hear this because there are few things worse than having high expectations and getting so disappointed.
Whenever I run into a sit like this I usually write what my Kids have called a NOLAC ( Notice of Liability and Consequence)
Start by researching the execs at Cabelas, not the somebody's-daughter buried low in the food chain. Try to picture their point of view
Pick the top three people, and set aside three envelopes.
Now write them a letter. Copy the Better Business Bureau in your addressee section.
In the first paragraph, cite all the success and loyalty you have had with them.
In the second paragraph, maybe including a couple of pics, give a simple statement of your problem. Include how disappointed and angry you are
In the third paragraph cite the actions you are considering, inclusive of class action or whatever you feel appropriate
In the last paragraph cite what you feel is a just resolution and your fervent desire to remain a client ( not a customer) as opposed to a negative reference worth ten clients.
Don't threaten and don't write with any emotion other than disappointment and reluctance to act.
I've only done this when sure I AM IN THE RIGHT and never failed to get a positive resolution and mutual win within one week.
Stuff the envelopes and put them into a $7.00 priority envelope so you can track it. The priority is addressed to the CEO with everybody else's copy in that envelope. When it gets to headquarters the chances are the CEO will delegate and everybody else will lose their poise. Your solution is not only going to get what you want, but designed to have a positive ending because this one mistake does not reflect the quality company they aspire to be.
I'll betcha The young lady on the phone perceives that she is just doing her job. She didn't know whether you were some kind of crack pot or whether you had a legitimate complaint and did not see going the extra yard for you as an acceptable risk. She's probably somebody's daughter or wife, and you don't ever want to lose your temper with the line employees. Get to the managers who can facilitate the decision you want.
Hang in there, pard; you did not deserve this disappointment but I bet you can get the dingy off the reef.
Godspeed
Capgun